If this is the future, shoot me now

[we vs us]

Not because it isn't cool, because it is.  But because it's freakin' nightmarish.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1czBcnX1Ww

[Townsend]

That's sweet.  First thing I thought of was a mechanical earth origin "Starship Troopers" bug.

[we vs us]

quote:Originally posted by Townsend

That's sweet.  First thing I thought of was a mechanical earth origin "Starship Troopers" bug.

Yes.  Sweet, it's true.  But it WILL EAT YOUR BRAINS AS YOU SLEEP.

Sorry, too much coffee today.

[cannon_fodder]

What was amazing is when he kicked the thing and it steadied itself.  That was amazing.   The computer power, software, and not too mention hardware to mimic balance like that is amazing.

But yeah... it is scary.

[Conan71]

quote:Originally posted by we vs us

Not because it isn't cool, because it is.  But because it's freakin' nightmarish.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1czBcnX1Ww

There is a sort of Sleepy Hollow feel to that.

[Breadburner]

It's nothing a well placed shot won't take care of......

[TheArtist]

They have been playing around with that danged thing for over a decade now. And it still looks to be doing pretty much the same thing as it did in the beginning. If they can get it to go at a quick run, give it some armor, and a gun.... then I will be impressed. however if it is the future, I hope they make it a lot quieter.

[grahambino]

incredible.

[Gaspar]

Wonder if I could get one with a little saddle?

[mrhaskellok]

This may sound like a silly question, but anyone know what the MPG is on this thing?  []

[Ed W]

I'd guess that this device relies on the same ring laser gyro technology as the Segway, so while the mechanicals may have been around for a decade or so, the controls are likely upgraded.  It could be interesting on a battlefield if equipped with the gunshot detection system some police agencies are using.  It could determine the position of a rifleman, communicate that to other units, and perhaps call in a GPS-guided, 'Smart' mortar round onto the target.  It's not far-fetched.  Most of the technology already exists.

One thing I couldn't determine was whether it was self-guided or remotely controlled.  I know the vehicles used in the DARPA Challenge still have problems with autonomous control, so I suspect this device is a remote.